What is your favorite travel memory?
It is hard to tell since all the places has taught me something about the world and personal growth, however, if I had to talk about just one, it would be definitely about my own study abroad experience at University of Northern Iowa. If was definitely an eye opener for me in terms of I was experiencing in my own flesh what our study abroad students go through when they come to Costa Rica: some culture shock, make a huge effort to communicate in a language different than mine, figuring out how relationships are built in there and many others. There is no doubt that I immediately started to appreciate more what I have at home and also realized that is definitely not the same when visiting for a tourist for a brief period instead of living in a foreign country.
How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?
It's hard to single out one place since each has taught me valuable lessons about the world and personal growth. However, if I had to choose, I would definitely talk about my Study Abroad experience at the University of Northern Iowa. It was indeed an eye-opener for me, as I experienced firsthand what our study-abroad students go through when they come to Costa Rica. I faced culture shock, made a significant effort to communicate in a language different from my own, and navigated how relationships are built there, among other challenges. This experience made me immediately appreciate what I have at home and realize that living in a foreign country vastly differs from visiting as a tourist for a brief period.
I have had the privilege of traveling to various parts of the U.S., including New York, Kansas, Philadelphia, Indiana, New Orleans, and Miami, as well as exploring other parts of this amazing world, such as England, Italy, the Czech Republic, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Panama, and Guatemala. These experiences have significantly contributed to my intercultural skills, allowing me to continually grow and adapt to diverse cultures and environments.
What is the best story you've heard from a return student?
Just like the question above, this one is equally difficult to answer. After working for 14 years in this program, I’ve heard countless touching stories filled with personal and professional growth. One of my favorites is about a student who created a new program to increase intercultural awareness at her home institution. She realized how invaluable it was for people struggling silently with cultural differences, especially foreign students. This experience also helped her understand her own culture better and make positive changes in her life.
If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?
I think that will depend on my current needs. If I have the time, I would definitely take some Spanish courses to develop proficiency in a new language, enhancing not just my social and cultural skills but also my cognitive abilities. Additionally, I would take elective courses related to my areas of interest to learn not only the academic content but also the local teaching methods.
If I need to complete my credits quickly, I would consider a Summer Intensive program or any of the J-TERM short-term programs. Last but not least, I would definitely participate in an internship program. Internships go beyond academics, offering the opportunity to work with local professionals and acquire diverse skills to prepare for a diverse and globalized world.
What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?
The place where I work is simply outstanding! We’re unique because we strongly believe in not just facilitating amazing and personalized experiences for students, but also growing with them by listening and understanding their generational needs, fears, creative ideas, and more. We believe that a world without inclusion and diversity makes no sense.
Our workplace stands out for its commitment to diversity and inclusion. We genuinely care about the needs of the study abroad community, creating an environment where every student feels valued and supported. Our competency-based methodological system promotes collaborative and inclusive learning, accommodating various learning styles and preferences. This approach ensures that all students can engage meaningfully and succeed in their educational journey.
Our team is incredibly supportive and always willing to help, characterized by a warm and welcoming attitude. This collaborative spirit enables us to advance together, creating a positive and dynamic workplace where everyone thrives.
By fostering an inclusive environment and prioritizing the diverse needs of our students, we create enriching experiences that not only educate but also transform lives. Our dedication to listening and adapting to the evolving needs of our students ensures that we remain at the forefront of providing exceptional study abroad experiences.
What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?
The most important factor that makes our company so successful is a combination of passion, commitment, flexibility, respect for diversity, and the promotion of inclusion.
Our passion for what we do drives us to go beyond expectations. We are dedicated to providing personalized and meaningful experiences for our students, and this passion is evident in every aspect of our work.
We are deeply committed to excellence and the well-being of our students. This commitment is shown through our willingness to listen to and understand their needs, fears, and creative ideas, ensuring they feel valued and supported.
Flexibility is key to our success. We adapt our programs and methods to the changing needs of our students and the global environment, allowing us to offer innovative and relevant solutions at all times.
We firmly believe that diversity enriches our lives and educational experiences. We foster an inclusive environment where all cultural, generational, and learning differences are respected and valued. Our competency-based methodological system promotes collaborative and inclusive learning, accommodating various learning styles and ensuring that all students can engage meaningfully and succeed.
Our team is a fundamental part of our success. Their warmth, willingness, and constant support contribute to a positive and collaborative work environment, enabling us to move forward together and achieve our shared goals.
In summary, the combination of passion, commitment, flexibility, respect for diversity, promotion of inclusion, and our supportive team makes our company an exceptional and successful place.